The KP Story

KP has been making tasty products for over 150 years.

Did you know when KP first opened for business we were selling sugar, confectionary, jams and pickles? The days of sugar and jam were all the way back in 1853 – well before roasted and salted nuts had even been thought of. Since 1853 KP has come a long way to now being home to some of the nation’s most loved brands such as McCoys and Hula Hoops and of course, the UK’s favourite nut brand!

1850's

KP began life in 1853 selling sugar, confectionary, jams and pickles. Not a sign of any roasted & salted nuts in those days.

1940's

In the post-war period, a demand for novel food items saw production begin at the Rotherham factory (which has recently moved to our brand new factory in Hellaby). The company became known as Kenyon Produce.

1950's

Kenyon Produce, now known as KP, manufactured sweets, popcorn, peanut brittle, peanut butter and peanuts. First nut production was in 1952. These were Roasted Salted Hazelnuts as they were the only nuts freely available. The first bags of peanuts launched under the Hercules brand and sold for 1d.

1960's

After years of success, in 1968 KP Nuts became part of United Biscuits manufacturing well known brands like McVitie's.

1970's

To bring you the highest quality nuts, in the 1970s we decided to stop producing peanut butter and peanut brittle so we could focus all of our attention on what we know best.

1980's

We launched our first Dry Roasted Peanuts and they became an instant hit, remaining a favourite today.

2000's

KP launches the first Salt & Vinegar Flavour Peanuts, these nuts have since become extremely popular.

2013

In early 2013 KP was acquired by the European Intersnack Group which is now Europe's number 2 snack producer!

2014

The nation’s favourite nut brand needs one of the nation’s best nut factories, and in 2014 a brand new and world leading factory is built in Hellaby.

2015

KP undergoes a major new re-design making us easier to spot and giving a vibrant and modern feel. Quality improvement on our packaging and the addition of a re-close label on larger packs finish our new look.

2016

KP Nuts appears on TV for the first time in 24 years, with a brand new campaign proving why KP Nuts is the UK's favourite nut! Featuring a baby elephant, there is no doubt that KP Nuts is the Nut Nut’s Nut!